"It is an inherited condition and cannot be caught or passed on to another person," she said.

"The most common treatment for all major forms of thalassemia is red blood cell transfusions. These transfusions are necessary to provide the patient with a temporary supply of healthy red blood cells with normal haemoglobin," said Dr Mahdi.

"Today, most patients with a major form of thalassemia receive red blood cell transfusions every two to three weeks, amounting to as much as 52 pints of blood a year.

"However, this may lead to excess iron in the body, which may require further treatment," she said.

Individuals who have blood group AB+ and wish to donate or refer anyone for the donation can call Mr Ghuloom on 39917776 or Ms Hussain on 39266181. aneeqa@gdn.com.bh